Reese and the Giants’ front office respected the production of Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones, a three-time All-Big Ten selection and a two-time All-American who had 465 tackles, 16 1/2 sacks and two interceptions in his college career.

“He’s played at a high level (and is a) very instinctive player,” Reese said of the 185th overall pick.

“He’s another guy who’s going to come in with a chip on his shoulder because I’m pretty sure he feels like he should’ve been picked a lot higher than where he got picked.”

Giants director of college scouting Marc Ross suggested Jones’ drop-off last season (106 tackles and one sack after recording 154 tackles and nine sacks as a junior) had at least a little to do with the play of the entire Spartans’ defense.

“It wasn’t like it was bad, his senior year. It was just a little bit off,” Ross said.

“Nothing really directly involved in his play or effort or anything like that. You’ve got to watch the tape to see the circumstances.

“But nothing jumped out that made you say, ‘Man, this guy’s not doing the same things he was doing before.’ He was pretty much the same player.”

The team also selected S Tyler Sash (No. 198 overall) and LB Jacquian Williams (No. 202) in the sixth round.

Though the 6-foot, 211-pound Sash is projected as a “box” strong safety, he had 13 interceptions in college.

“Smart player,” Reese said. “He can line up the entire defense, he can put everybody on there and tell you what they should do. You love those kinds of guys.”

Maryland RB Da’Rel Scott ran the fastest 40-yard dash (4.34 seconds) at the NFL Scouting Combine but must answer questions about fumbling issues and diminished production in his final two seasons (a combined 1,133 yards rushing) with the Terrapins.

“We hope this guy will come over here and do a Willie Parker,” Reese said in reference to the former Steelers running back.